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Rome by Night | Walking Tour of Rome | Free Rome Tour

ItalyTravelista — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 15:28:53 +0000

Explore Rome, the Eternal City after dark! Rome lovers think Rome is most beautiful at night when its ancient Rome landmarks, St. Peter’s Square and Rome’s magnificent renaissance squares and baroque fountains designed by Bernini and Michelangelo are illuminated in all their glory! Beside it’s another thing to do in Rome for FREE! ItalyTravelista has three walking Rome tours to suggest where parents and children alike can enjoy the charme and elegance of Rome at night at their own pace!

Tour Ancient Rome by Night

Start off your illuminated Rome tour at Piazza Venezia Square to enjoy the Vittoriano Monument and ask your kids whether the huge white monument looks more like a “Wedding Cake” or a “Typewriter”! Then proceed along Via dei Fori Imperiali where on your left is Trajan’s Column and on your side the ancient Roman Forum. In the background rises the majestic Coliseum and to its right the Constantine’s Arch built in 315 AD. Turn right and take Via di San Gregorio until you reach Via dei Cerchi. Turn right and on your left you will see the Circus Maximus where the famous chariot races depicted in the Ben Hur movie took place while on your right rises the magnificent Imperial Rome palaces of the Palatine Hill. Walk the length of the Circus Maximus and turn right onto Via di San Gregorio. On your left stands the Arch of Janus built around 356 AD by Constantius II just next to the beautiful medieval Church of St. George al Velabro and further ahead on your right take a peek at the unusual circular 6th century Church of San Teodoro. Follow around until you reach Piazza della Consolazione. Take the stairs leading up to the Capitoline Hill but before you actually reach Michelangelo’s square stop for the most stunning view over the illuminated Roman Forum!

Tour Christian Rome by Night

Begin your pleasant walk at Piazza Farnese square to enjoy the Farnese Palace lit up and wonder about the great artists of the Renaissance like Michelangelo and Della Porta who worked on this magnificent Renaissance palace now home to the French Embassy. Walk through Campo dè Fiori square lined these days with bars and restaurants but where on Feb. 17, 1600 Giordano Bruno was burnt for heresy onto Piazza della Cancelleria to admire the beautiful Palazzo della Cancelleria, the first palazzo in Rome built from the ground up in the new Renaissance style, and then across the main street to Piazza Navona the most baroque square in Rome. Cross the Tiber river on the Ponte Sant’ Angelo and look at the marvelous Saint’ Angel’s Castle. The highlight and end of your night walking Rome tour will be the breathtaking view of the illuminated St. Peter’s Basilica.

Tour Renaissance and Baroque Rome by Night

Your enjoyable walk starts at the charming Piazza del Popolo square designed by Valadier in the 17th century reminiscent of Bernini’s plan for St. Peter’s Square. Pass the two baroque twin churches and stroll down the antique dealer street of Via del Babuino (the Baboon) for a few blocks and then take a left onto the fascinating Via Margutta, home to several artists including the famous Italian director Federico Fellini. At the end of Via Margutta you reach the Spanish Steps. From Via due Macelli go down Via del Tritone and follow signs on your left for the most beautiful baroque fountain in Rome: the Trevi Fountain.

When visiting Rome do tour Rome by night! Pretty much all of the major attractions that you see in Rome during the day are lit up at night. And yes, definitely worth seeing again, and again.

Ciao from Rome

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

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Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours specializes in private family oriented Rome and Vatican tours led by friendly and entertaining official Rome tour guides designed to satisfy the curiosity and attention spans of the whole family visiting Rome.

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Rome for children | Family Oriented Rome Tours | Kid friendly activities in Rome

ItalyTravelista — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 00:48:06 +0000

Summer is approaching fast and Rome, Italy is the ideal place for families with kids to spend their holidays. Rome’s rich archeological, artistic and cultural heritage are so remarkable that Rome’s historic centre has been listed by UNESCO as World Heritage site. Rome is a wonderful and very safe place to visit with kids, with lots of fun and informative family oriented activities bound to keep the troops entertained. What are the secrets behind a memorable Roman trip with children? Get every family member involved when planning your trip to Rome, keep your schedule loose as there are so many things to do in Rome, and to get the most out of your Roman Holiday when in Rome allow quality time at quality venues to enjoy Rome at your kid’s pace. Here is Italytravelista’s list of child friendly activities and sights to be visited in/around Rome that will keep the whole family happy and entertained without breaking the bank!

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

When you look down at the Roman Forum from the terrace on the Capitoline Hill you see the center of the world and the world’s biggest and most ancient jungle-gym. Kids can hide behind the 2000 years old ruins, run on the grassy mounds near the temple of Julius Caesar and have fun at the Farnese Gardens, the first botanical garden in the world. Remind your kids that all the palaces in the world are named after the Palatine hill because the Emperors built here their Palatial houses.

Colosseum

In the Colosseum tell your kids the tales about gladiators and wild beasts. Manned elevators could bring up to 1,000 warriors at the same time or else hundreds of hungry lions…or both! Superb engineering went into the Coliseum. 50,000 spectators could be seated to enjoy the ugliest show of all: death to men and beasts. Tell your children the thumbs up or thumbs down that originated here as the Emperors decided freedom (up) or death (down) for the gladiators.

Gladiator School in Rome

Kids will love a day at the Gladiator School and learn how to become a Roman gladiator. During this two-hour lesson, a gladiator instructor teaches kids and adults how to fight with authentic weapons used by the gladiators of ancient Rome. Lessons are organized and led by members of the Historic Group of Rome who specialize in the re-enactment of Roman life and gladiatorial combat.

The Baths of Emperor Caracalla

The Baths of Caracalla were the largest thermae in the world when completed in 217AD whilst today is a huge playground largely neglected by the hordes of tourists where to enjoy a sunny day with the dramatic Roman ruins in the background. A short stroll from the Caracalla’s Baths leads to the very off the beaten path museum of the Walls of Rome. Located just inside the Porta San Sebastiano kids can march along the Aurelian Walls, just the way the ancient Roman Legionaries used to do.

Early Christian catacombs

There are 69 catacombs on the outskirts of Rome and thousand of tombs but only 5 of the catacombs are open to the public. These underground dark labyrinths are spooky enough to delight and perhaps even frighten most kids!

The Mouth of Truth (Bocca della verità)

Remember the scene with Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck in the film Roman Holiday? For fun show the kids the original lie detector which is located in the portico of the Basilica of Saint Mary in Cosmedin, one of my favorite medieval churches in Rome. According to a medieval legend if you put your hand into the mouth and tell a lie you’ll be bitten!

Church of the Immaculate Conception or Capuchin Kript

A spooky place which just might fascinate the older kids! The bones and skulls of thousands of Capuchin monks have been crafted into decorative tableaux. No photos allowed and small donation is appreciated by the friars.

Piazza Navona Square

The joyous curves of this sensuous square typify baroque Rome with masterpieces by both Bernini and Borromini. In 86 A.D. Emperor Domitian built a long U-shaped stadium here and since then Piazza Navona Square has served as a glorious outdoor theater. There is much street entertainment going on in this beautiful square including mimes, puppet shows,caricaturists and painters. A great spot for a tartufo ice cream gelato.

Saint Angel’s Castle

Castel Sant’Angelo is just like Rome, layer upon layer, building upon building. This is the most magnificent of all the Roman Imperial tombs that became a fortress in the Middle Ages, a Papal Castle in the Renaissance, and a museum today. Kids can visit the papal prison complete with winding dark scary corridors, secret passageways, real cannons and cannon balls. The view from atop the castle is terrific!

Janiculum Hill

Above Trastevere on the rim of the Janiculum Hill in front of the statue of Garibaldi, is one of best places to view Rome. Pony rides and merry-go-round are near. A puppet show in Italian runs every afternoon and donations are welcome. At noon sharp kids will be amused by the firing of a cannon just below this lofty square, a tradition dating back 100 years when it signaled lunch time for the workers.

Villa Borghese Gardens

Cardinal Scipione Borghese did for Rome what the Medicis had done for Florence. Villa Borghese was the show-place for this 17th C. artistic flowering. The cardinal invited Jacob More from Edinburgh to landscape this vast area. The English style park is 4 miles in circumference and contains statues, green trees, bike friendly itineraries and a small lake. After a tour of the Borghese Gallery these gardens are the perfect spot for a family picnic.

Rome’s playgrounds for young children

Rome offers various opportunities for a day out or nice break from ancient ruins and baroque churches. Villa Celimontana, right up the street from the Colosseum, Villa Ada, to the north of central Rome, and Villa Pamphili, the largest park in Rome not far from the Janiculum Hill, are the perfect spots to enjoy walking, biking or perhaps a soccer game with the local kids. Again perfect for picnics.

Rome day trips

Leave the Eternal City behind for a day on your family Roman holiday and visit Tivoli to enjoy Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’ Este with its impressive concentration of fountains, nymphs, grottoes, plays of water, and music. Peek into Roman antiquities at ancient Rome’s port at Ostia or visit the hilltop town of Orvieto with its fabulous 14th century Roman Catholic cathedral and Etruscan underground passages.

“For a great selection of places to stay with discount prices visit Rome Hotels for more information.”

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips and pictures with us? Please write us your comments and we’ll be happy to post them!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

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New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

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Walking Rome Tour | Rome Trastevere Restaurants | Rome Delicious Bites

ItalyTravelista — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:51:37 +0000

Trastevere Walking Rome Tour | Fontanone on the Janiculum Hill overlooking Rome

Trastevere is one of the best-known areas in Rome and a place to explore little by little, discovering its stunning squares, narrow alleys, medieval churches and renaissance buildings.

Start your Trastevere stroll from the Janiculum hill and enjoy a romantic view of Rome from Il Fontanone, a huge fountain rising high above the Trastevere neighborhood, or from the charming Tiber Island, just opposite the ancient Jewish Ghetto and Jewish Modern Synagogue to enjoy Ponte Cestio, Ponte Rotto and Ponte Fabricio, Rome’s oldest bridge.

Every corner of Trastevere offers something to gladden the eye. Any tour of Trastevere should include a visit to the remarkable church of Santa Maria in Trastevere, probably the oldest church in Rome, built in the 4th century and then restored in the 8th century and again in the 11th century. This Basilica hosts a number of masterpieces, from the mosaics in the apse by Pietro Cavallini to the 13th century facade.

Remarkable St. Mary Basilica in Trastevere | Tour Rome by Night

Not far from here the16th Century Villa Farnesina is a must see adorned with artworks by Raphael and Sebastiano del Piombo, but all along Via della Lungara starting from the late 15th century Porta Settimiana to the renaissance Palazzo Salviati is a off the beaten track walking tour of Rome that should not be missed. Going back to Viale Trastevere after walking through a maze of narrow alleys in the most medieval part of Trastevere Rome lovers will find the beautiful 9th century Church of Santa Cecilia, built on top of ancient Rome Baths, with its luscious gardens, 13th century frescoes and outstanding early Christian catacombs, and the nearby Church of San Francesco a Ripa housing the sculpture of Blessed Ludovica Albertoni crafted by an elderly Bernini in 1674.

It’s now Dinner Time in Trastevere! When in Rome where to eat in Trastevere?

This is ItalyTavelista personal best wine and dine restaurants guide to the Trastevere quarter but if you’re looking for a Pizzeria in Trastevere you can check this Rome Best Pizzeria post.

Best Restaurants in Trastevere

A’ Ciaramira

Good Seafood and Seasonal Vegetarian Dishes
Best Bets: Raw Fish | Seafood Pasta
Price 65€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating 76/100

Antica Pesa

Definitely one of best restaurants in Trastevere.
Excellent Roman Food and Great Wines!
Best Bet: Pasta Cacio e Pepe
Price 65€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating 76/100 | L’Espresso Wine Cellar of the Year 2010

Delicious Prawns at Ripa 12 | Trastevere Delicious Seafood

Checco er Carettiere

One of the Oldest Trattoria in Trastevere Serving Very Good Roman Traditional Dishes
Best Bet: Bombolotti alla Amatriciana
Price 60€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating 76/100

Jaipur | 56 Via di San Francesco a Ripa | 06 5803992

Very Good Indian Restaurant located in a peaceful Lane Just off Viale Trastevere

Best Bets: Tandoori Dishes
Price 30€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating N/A

Osteria La Gensola

Located in the Charming Piazza in Piscinula La Gensola Offers Excellent Food

Best Bets: Roman Traditional Dishes | Shellfish
Price 50€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating 75/100

Minnetti in Trastevere

One of my fave Restaurants in Trastevere. Chef Roberto Minnetti and his great team serve real Tuscan food in the heart of Rome! Enjoy the short but really good wine list, I like the Poggio Antico Montalcino, the outstanding Extra Virgin Olive Oil, the wide choice of sea salt! Just Brilliant!

Best Bets: Veal Tripe | 100 Egg Pasta | Peposa Stew

Price 40€ | Excellent Value for Money | Guida L’Espresso 2010 Rating 13/20

My Fave Montalcino Wine at Minnetti | Tuscan Restaurant in Trastevere

Fabrizio dal 1956 | 15 Via di Santa Dorotea | Tel 06 5806244 | Wednesdays Closed

This is my fave trattoria in Trastevere! Great traditional Roman food served by Fabrizio with a smile. Booking recommended as this place gets very busy every evening with locals and politicians. No English menu here yet but Fabrizio in working on that.

Best Bets: Check for the daily specials on the chalk board

Price 40€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating Good Value for Money

My Fave Roman Restaurant in Trastevere | Nancy Aiello Tours

Restaurant Ripa 12

Not fancy just real good and fresh seafood from Calabria with a good wine list and good service

Best Bet: Sea Bass & Tuna Carpaccio

Price 55€ | Guida L’Espresso 2010 Rating 12.5/20

Roma Sparita

A Very Good Traditional Trattoria Located in the Heart of Medieval Rome

Best Bets: Typical Roman Dishes | Calzone

Price 25€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 N/A

Trattoria Degli Amici

A Special Restaurant for Special People in the Heart of the Trastevere Nightlife. I love this place run by Sant’ Egidio Community that helps disadvantaged and less fortunate people while serving really good food. Check with the sommelier, he does not drink wine but can tell from your face if the bottle is good!

Best Bets: Cod Maccheroni | Cous Cous

Price 35€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Excellent Value for Money

Who Needs a Dryer in Trastevere | Narrow and Colorfoul Trastevere Alleys

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips or pictures with us? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it! Buon Viaggio!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

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Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours, based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing a version of this article on your website please contact us for consent and further info.

A Tour of Trastevere | Rome at a Glance from the Janiculum Hill

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Discreet Charm of Shopping in Rome | An interview with RomeShoppinGuide.com

ItalyTravelista — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:35:58 +0000

Lunch with Stefania Troiani | Owner and Founder at Romeshoppinguide.com

It’s a glorious, golden autumn day in Rome, and after admiring the Renaissance gateway of Piazza del Popolo and tempting shops on a stroll along central Rome’ cobblestoned alleys I reach San Lorenzo in Lucina to have lunch at Ciampini with Stefania Troiani.

Ms Stefania Troiani is the Owner and Founder of Rome Shopping Guide.com a custom Rome tour planning company specialized in providing tailor made luxury private shopping Rome tours.

The view from our table is outstanding overlooking Rome and we’re eager to learn more about shopping in Rome with Rome Shopping Guide.com

Ciao Stefania, please tell us about yourself. Are you originally from Rome?

Buongiorno Nancy, my family is from Rome and we have been living in the Eternal City of Rome for as long as any member of the family can remember and I am very proud of that.

Rome is the largest open air museum in the world and as a local I love sharing it with visitors and friends who come from all over the world to enjoy Rome designers’ shops and boutique surrounded by Rome’s architectural masterpieces. My philosophy is to provide my guests with the finest vacation in Rome together with a personal and friendly service, and I am extremely keen on sharing the love I feel for Rome, my city and my fondness for shopping in this amazing city with you.

What makes Rome such a popular shopping destination?

Shopping in Rome is a marriage in paradise. In Rome you find the most famous and desirable designer shops all nestled in a colorful and unforgettable urban landscape made of small alleys, old patrician palaces and unique squares designed by the genius artists Italy is famous for. In some cities you shop between districts, in Rome you shop between centuries.

Beside, Rome is not only for the glitterati who like to splash out on the latest must-have bag. On the contrary the Eternal City of Rome has plenty to offer for all tastes and wallets, from chic boutiques to small ateliers and artisan shops that you can only find by taking your time walking the ancient walks of Rome.

Actually the best of the Made in Italy with its sartorial touch can be found here and if you know who to ask you can even find the Pope’s tailor located just off the Pantheon!

How did you start your business as personal shopper in Rome?

About six years ago during one of my frequent business trips to London I decided to maximize my shopping time by hiring a personal shopper. The results were excellent because of the great value of the assistance I got and because I realized that I took a service that I used to provide to my friends when they came to visit me in Rome. I suddenly realized that this creative job could have been a great challenge for me since back in 2003 very few were aware of this service in Italy.

I exchanged these thoughts with my friends about sharing my expertise for styling and fashion together with my passion of Rome with guests and they encouraged me to “launch myself” setting up a “friendly Rome shopping guide” website and that’s how romeshoppinguide.com was born! Since then words of mouth has been my best advertising!

I am extremely happy with the decision I took because it gives me the opportunity to get in touch with people from different places and cultures. These encounters often turns into friendship and give us the possibility to exchange views on the latest fashion trends from NYC or Mumbai to Shanghai and Paris, and it’s really fascinating.

What are your most popular tours or types of shopping requests?

My clientele, both male and female, when they come to Rome for sightseeing or business, are interested in having access to the “unknown Rome”.

Actually what I enjoy the most is to take shoppers beyond the street level retail shops sharing “my Rome shopping secrets” with guests curious to experience Rome in a no tourist way.

Just to give you an example, since Italy is also famous for leather I have being asked several times by my clients to take them to leather goods shops. I do accompany them to visit skill craftsmen of which there are few left downtown Rome. These are my favorite gems. In these leather shops with annexed laboratory guests can purchase and customize their bags, suitcases, jackets, coats, shoes with the preferred kind of leather, seize, color and accessories.

This kind of shopping trip together with those that target private showrooms and local artisan laboratories are always a successful experience. I am telling you this Nancy just to say that Italy is still a country with a strong and alive artisan heritage and if you would like to have a unique made in Italy quality piece, this is the place to come to for it!

Then going back to your question, and actually a question I have also been asked often from my clients: there are not popular shopping Rome tours but similar shopping requests as for clothing and shoes of course but also from well traveled visitors looking for limited edition watches and customized jewelry, or vintage Tuscan wines and gourmet food, pottery and Italian blow glass and made in Italy home furniture, and even vintage fountain pens Italy is famous for!

But let me tell you that sometimes I also get unusual requests such as the one from two ladies who asked me to take them just to the best quality open air food market in town because they wanted to make a dinner surprise for their husbands! We had an amazing time together, they were eager to learn about Italian recipes and so during our shopping food tour I was pleased to share my family secrets with them on how to cook with those fresh ingredients. After few days I was very happy to receive a thank you letter from the ladies. This is just one of the several wonderful shopping memories I got.

Can you tell me a sample itinerary of two contrasting tours, for example, Piazza Navona and Via Veneto?

My aim and skills resides in customizing itineraries according to the client’s goals making sure that each Rome shopping tour is memorable and one of a kind.

The Piazza Navona and the Via Veneto guided shopping tours as proposed in romeshoppinguide.com are based on my experience and entice most of the guests that visit Rome for the first time. But please keep in mind that these itineraries can be tailor made, revised and eventually turn up side down even at the very last second according to my guests. When I receive a Rome shopping tour enquiry I ask for as many details as possible so that I can design a made to measure Rome shopping itinerary based on each shopper needs and maximize his/her precious time in Rome while making sure his/her shopping spree is fun and relaxing.

Back to your question, Piazza Navona and Via Veneto /Dolce Vita guided shopping Rome tours vary because of the different kind of shops you can find and the feeling you get by strolling around these shopping areas.

Shopping through the historical Piazza Navona area means going for antique shops, artisans and Italian glass shops, minimalist boutiques, wine bars and gourmet shops, breathing the ancient Roman atmosphere on every corner. In this shopping area surrounded by remarkable fountains, noble palaces and ancient ruins guests get the perfect combination of a shopping and sightseeing Rome tour since beside leading guests to the shops I love to highlight to them the surrounding treasures and masterpieces so to blend Italy art with shopping.

The Via Veneto area, well known as the Dolce Vita Street, has many exclusive leather goods, jewelers, gloves and fashion shops that I usually suggest to a sophisticated and more mature clientele, and my American guests enjoy a lot the sight of the nearby U.S. Embassy.

You also offer tours to Tuscany & Umbria as well as factory outlets and food/wine stores. What do these tours encompass?

I love offering my guests different choices of shopping and wine tours as well as promoting my country letting travelers know that Italy is not only Rome, Venice, Florence or Capri and beside the astonishing Tuscan countryside well known around the world, there is also the beautiful Umbria region.

The Umbria area is extremely picturesque with a wide range of choices from visiting ancient Castles surrounded by vineyards, where to stop for a personalized wine tasting, to pottery and cashmere outlets (the best Italian ceramics and cashmere brand name factories come from this region), from stopping at the chocolate factory (the famous Bacio perugina comes from Perugia!) to visiting the gourmet shops specialized in black truffle. I mean the list of treasures to discover and things to do is endless and it is definitely worth a visit!

The Italian designer’s outlet tours are bargain hunting tours and finding quality designer goods at 30% to 70% discount on the retail price is wonderful and well worth the day trip from Rome!

Often those outlet tours could be combined with magnificent wine and genuine Italian food tastings, according to the region we visit.

Can you share some of the current fashion trends in Italy, from clothing to shoes to eyewear?

I love clothes and accessories that have style and are not related to any specific trend. In my opinion fashion trends for 2010 would be a lot more towards affordable fashions than big labels. Today’s fashion designers need to be extremely creative in order to have a competitive edge in today’s growing fashion industry.

Having said that I am saving for a beautiful suitcase that I have recently seen at the last Milan Fashion Show. I won’t tell you the brand! After all I am Italian and I am a fashion victim by default!!!

We had a great conversation and a good lunch but now and I feel the urge for a shopping walk where I will need Stefania’ skills and tips to buy a lot of Made in Italy without breaking the bank!

Next time you’re planning to visit Rome do not miss the opportunity to contact Stefania at info@romeshoppinguide.com to shop in Rome as the Romans do!

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips or pictures with us? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it! Buon Viaggio!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

Join us on Twitter

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours, based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If interested in publishing a version of this article please contact Nancy Aiello Tours.

When in Rome shop as the Romans do | Enjoy shopping in Rome

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Rome Walking Tour | Best Bars and Restaurants around the Trevi Fountain

ItalyTravelista — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 17:40:54 +0000

Walking Rome Tour | Enjoy the Baroque Trevi Fountain

The Colosseum is the most visited attraction in Rome after St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, but according to the feedbacks we collected from our guests Trevi Fountain is perhaps the most loved landmark in Rome and due to its enduring appeal this baroque fountain is probably the most photographed monument in Rome.

Designed by Nicola Salvini in 1732, the Trevi Fountain is one of the last Roman baroque treasures built in Rome. This is the place where Fellini directed Anita Ekberg in La Dolce Vita movie as she frolicked in the water inviting Marcello Mastroianni “Marcello, come here”.

And the Fontana di Trevi still casts its spell on visitors today, not least because of the legend that says that by turning your back on the baroque monument and throwing a coin over your shoulder you are sure to return to Rome one day. Thanks to this legend Rome’s Major cashes Euro 600,000 every year, and the money is used to support needy projects around Rome.

The Trevi Fountain is right in the heart of the Eternal City of Rome and the area is packed with quintessentially Roman sights. Wander around the area and you’ll see that there is at least a church in every square making a religious theme tour an interesting prospect.

Being such a popular spot with an endless stream of tourists and visitors it is very common in the Trevi Fountain area to end up paying an exorbitant price for drinks and frozen food presented as it was fresh. So should visitors avoid this area? Absolutely NOT, just read ItalyTravelista list of tourist-friendly Bars and Restaurants in/around the Trevi Fountain and enjoy real Italian food by one of the most stunning baroque fountains in all of Rome.

TOP RESTAURANTS and BARS Near The TREVI FOUNTAIN

Tamerici

Only a few steps from the Trevi Fountain, located in a typical Rome’s narrow alley, Le Tamerici is an excellent choice for a nice lunch or a romantic dinner. I personally enjoy the great selection of appetizers and the good wine list combined with a very efficient service. Few outdoor tables available.

Price Euro 50 | Gambero Rosso 2010 Overall Rating 52 | Closed Sundays

Vineria Il Chianti

Il Chianti is a very nice wine bar, restaurant and pizzeria just off Trevi Square. Owned by the same company running Le Tamerici, Il Chianti is a modern version of the traditional trattoria, service is courteous and the bill is fair. Nice outdoor tables.

Price Euro 25 | Gambero Rosso 2010 Overall N/A | Closed Sundays

Vineria il Chianti by the Trevi Fountain | Tasty Italian Appetizers

Piccolo Arancio | Vicolo Scanderbeg 112

This tiny, charming trattoria only a few blocks from the Trevi Fountain in an almost hidden alleyway offers authentic Italian food at very reasonable prices. Plenty of regulars come here for the excellent fritters, the farfalle and fusilli pasta dishes and delicious dessert like the lemon mousse. Few outdoor tables available.

Price Euro 30 | Gambero Rosso 2010 Overall Rating N/A | Closed Mondays

Ristorante Al Presidente

Once a rustic trattoria Al Presidente is today a stylish restaurant serving well prepared roman traditional food and excellent seafood. Dinner here would cost around Euro 60 but you can take advantage of the excellent value for money lunch, every day except for Sundays, with a choice of a self service buffet plus two dishes and a pasta from the kitchen.

Buffet Price Euro 32 | Gambero Rosso 2010 Overall Rating 79 | Closed Mondays

Ristorante Nino | Via Borgognona 11

Just a couple of blocks from the Spanish Steps and not far from the Trevi Fountain Nino is a great place for tasting the best traditional food from Tuscany. Here you will love the atmosphere and elegance of a Bygone Era and the food and the wine and the service! One of my faves restaurants in Rome.

Price Euro 55 | Gambero Rosso 2010 Overall Rating 70 | Closed Sundays

Spaghetteria L’Archetto | Via dell’Archetto 26

A few blocks away from the Trevi Fountain L’Archetto spaghetti house offers pasta dressed with over 120 kind of different of pasta sauces. Here you’ll also find pizza and traditional well prepared Italian dishes. Prices are reasonable, outside seating available and it is always open in summer.

Price Euro 25 | Gambero Rosso 2010 Overall Rating N/A | Closed Never

Enoteca Regionale Palatium | Authentic Roman Food & Wine

Enoteca Regionale Palatium

This delicious wine bar, just a short walk from the Trevi Fountain offers Rome’ specialties. Taste the food, try the wines, do the sum and you’ll agree this place offers excellent value for money.

Price Euro 30 | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating 2 Bottles | Closed Sundays

Museo Atelier Canova Tadolini

This attractive establishment, once the workshop of Canova’s favorite pupils, has been transformed in a museum and hosts an elegant bar. Open for breakfast, lunch and pre-dinner cold platters, salads and sandwiches are very fresh and service is always smiling and professional.

Price Euro 25 | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating 2 Bottles | Closed Never

Galleria Alberto Sordi

Just a short walk from the Fontana di Trevi you’ll find this historical Art-Deco’ gem recently fully renovated, that offers everything from design shops to bar via a bookstore and a very nice restaurant. Espresso here is very good.

Join the locals in this roman-style mall open from 11 AM to 11 PM.

Il Palazzetto

Il Palazzetto wine bar and restaurant offer an incredible location in the heart of Rome with its terrace overlooking the Spanish Steps. Dinner could easily top E100 per person but at lunch, although not cheap, you’re unlikely to regret a single penny of your bill. Very tasty salads, sandwiches pasta and pastries are served on the terrific terrace!

Lunch Price Euro 35 | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating 76 | Closed Mondays

Would you like to share your Rome, Italy travel tips or travel picture with us? Please write us your feedback and we will be happy to post it! Buon Viaggio!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

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Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours, based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

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Another Coin Another Picture | Trevi Fountain or Fontana di Trevi

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Travel to Rome | Rome in Piazza

ItalyTravelista — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 20:56:13 +0000

Rome Navona Square

The Eternal City of Rome is famous for its mind-blowing monuments, remarkable churches and magnificent museums but the squares in Rome are the best places to enjoy the vibrant city life and the perfect spot to laze away your day surrounded by people and history, as the Romans do! When in Rome visit baroque squares and enjoy your Italian cappuccino next to renaissance palaces or medieval Roman churches. Tour Rome walking your way through art and tradition. This is ItalyTravelista personal list of the most beautiful squares of Rome.

Piazza Navona

Once a site for spectacular Roman games, Navona Square maintains an oval shape, akin to the most famous game arena, Circus Maximus. During the late 15th century, the square underwent a remarkable revamp, and is now the greatest example of Baroque Roman urban architecture. Navona square is dominated by the outstanding Four Rivers Fountain designed by Bernini, and across from the “Nile”, by the church of St’Agnese in Agone designed by Borromini. Here you can relax in one of the several outdoor cafes and restaurants and enjoy one of the several shows performed in the square by street performers and artists.

Piazza del Popolo

Once a site for public executions, these days Popolo Square is far more peaceful, and given its proximity to Borghese park and Via del Corso, it maintains a lively crowd of café-goers, shoppers and businessmen. Enjoy the mighty obelisk in the center of the square while sipping a nice espresso at one of the two pricey bars located in square’s corners. Nearby do not miss the pleasant Via Margutta, a quiet narrow street home to artists and painters.

Piazza Farnese

A quieter alternative to the busy Campo dè Fiori, located just a short walk away. Farnese Square is dominated by the eponymous Palazzo Farnese, a Renaissance palace, boasting works by Antonio da Sangallo il Giovane, Michelangelo, and Giacomo della Porta. While it is necessary to obtain permission from the resident French Embassy to visit the interior, an evening stroll through the piazza allows a glimpse at the frescoed ceilings. The piazza itself is simple and elegant, with two fountains and few cafés. Enjoy a glass of wine at the classy Camponeschi wine bar or a roman dinner at the traditional trattoria Ar Galletto. If you decide for the Galletto make sure to make a reservation asking for a table just in front of the Embassy NOT in the back alley or indoor!

Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina

Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina, in the shopping heart of Rome, is one of the most elegant meeting places, and owes its name to the 4th century chapel of San Lorenzo, built on the home of Christian matron Lucina. Just around the corner from Montecitorio, the Italian Chamber of Deputies, Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina is a regular hang out for politicians and journalists, who are easily spotted eating ice creams or chatting about the next reform at the smart and elegant bar Ciampini, enjoying small but excellent sandwiches and delicious gelati.

St. Lorenzo in Lucina Church | A Great Place to Enjoy Rome

Piazza di Pietra

The impressive facade of the Temple of Hadrian, embedded in the walls of the Italian Stock Exchange building, is the distinctive backdrop for this quiet and pleasant square. The temple was dedicated to the deified Emperor Adriano by his adoptive son and successor Antoninus Pius in AD 145. The temple has just been renovated and its 11 massive corinthian columns shine. A cozy and relaxing setting, the piazza hosts the trendy bar Salotto 42, and La Caffettiera, an elegant Neapolitan-style cafe serving extra-strong espresso to keep you going!

Piazza della Rotonda

The best preserved ancient Roman, the Pantheon was conceived as a temple to all Gods and was later turned into a Catholic church. Michelangelo referred to this temple as “a work not of humans but of an Angel”, and the surrounding Piazza della Rotonda is the Pantheon’s perfect frame. The structure’s balanced geometry and the outdoor cafés lined around the square are a soothing experience for passers-by. Fiocco di Neve Gelateria on Via del Pantheon 51 and Caffè Tazza d’Oro are just a short walk away, while for a hearty roman dinner you can try Armando al Pantheon.

Piazza St. Mary in Trastevere

This lively square is home to one of the oldest and most original churches in Rome, Santa Maria in Trastevere, which is also thought to be one of the sites where Christians first openly celebrated the Holy Mass. The popular Trastevere quarter is a pleasant place to enjoy traditional roman food and typical Rome thin-crusted pizza.

Piazza Santa Maria ai Monti

Nestled within the narrow alleys of the Monti hill, between Via dei Serpenti and Via del Boschetto, the small and charming Piazza di Santa Maria ai Monti, hosts the main church of the Monti neighborhood and the Catholic Ukrainian Seminar of Rome. Lots of sitting room around the fountain makes the perfect spot to rest your tired feet or to read a book under the sun. Don’t miss a very pleasant pre-dinner rest in one of the several Monti wine bars like Tre Scalini, Al Vino al Vino, Barrique or an Indian dinner at the Maharajah, otherwise you can enjoy a creative Italian dinner at Urbana 47.

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips with us? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it!

Have a nice walking tour of Rome!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

Twitter.com/ItalyTravelista

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours, based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing a version of this article on your website please contact us for consent and further info.

St. Mary in Trastevere | Enjoy Rome as the Romans do!

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Travel to Rome | Where to Taste the Best Italian Espresso

ItalyTravelista — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:04:47 +0000

Enjoy Rome and its outdoor cafes

Caffè espresso is Italy national drink and Romans drink coffee throughout the day, and whenever people meet the first question is always: would you like a “buon caffè”? Rome has dozen outdoor cafes where to enjoy your espresso and watch people go by! Until few years ago espresso was the official “flavor” with decaf and ristretto as only available options but these days it is very common to go to a coffee shop and hear customers shouting: American Coffee, Irish coffee, Mexican coffee, Moroccan coffee with cream and chocolate, cold (freddo), with panna, shaken (shakerato), corretto with grappa or sambuca. Basically coffee variations are up to the customer’s imagination and the skills of the barista (bartender)!

If you travel to Rome and want to sip a delicious cup of caffè espresso (as the Romans called it) with locals, do try the most extravagant variations! Here is ItalyTravelista list of bars and cafès in Rome where to savor your Italian Espresso!

Antico Caffè Greco:

Much has remained unchanged since the Antico Caffè Greco first opened in 1760. Nowadays people come here for a relaxed breakfast or a delicious coffee in a very exclusive environment. Prices are not popular but reflect the Caffè Greco’s prestige and enviable location, only a few steps away from the Spanish Steps.

Caffe’ Ciampini:

Ciampini is located in the charming and peaceful Piazza in Lucina, one of the very few pedestrian area in the centre of Rome where you can relax and enjoy your espresso, or a tasty ice cream.

Enchanting piazza S.Lorenzo in Lucina home to Ciampini

Caffè Sant’Eustachio:

In my opinion Sant’Eustachio serves the best Rome’s coffee and it’s very popular with locals and visitors alike. Such is its popularity that you have to be prepared to queue. Among the specialties the Grancaffè, a double espresso with cream, the granita coffee ice with whipped cream, and the Irish coffee.

Tazza d’Oro:

At a short walk from the Pantheon Tazza d’Oro is famous for its outstanding granita coffee ice with whipped cream, and the strong-taste espresso.

Sciascia dal 1922 | Via Fabio Massimo, 80a

Not a fashionable coffee shop but a very good coffee indeed. Coffee is imported directly from Africa and South America, then roasted and served on the spot, much to the delight of the many customers who appreciate the Sciascia family’s service and courtesy.

La Bottega del Caffè | Piazza Madonna dei Monti, 5

This bar prepares very good coffee in its enviable position, looking out onto the pretty little square of Madonna dei Monti. You’ll find the service here always courteous.

Bar del Cappuccino

Be prepared to queue because this bar is small and very popular. The coffee is good as well as the cappuccino served in a unique decorated version. Must try the special coffee with milk froth and cocoa powder.

Faggiani | Via G. Ferrari, 23

Faggiani serves one of the best coffee in Rome and the breakfast fare which includes croissant, fried bombe, and cakes is equally good. Prices here are slightly above average but after all, this is the snobbish Prati district.

Caffè Spinelli | Piazza del Viminale, 18

This welcoming little bar is located in Piazza del Viminale just opposite the Italian Ministry of Interior, and is a regular meeting place for businessmen and politicians. Coffee is excellent and the smiling service deserves a mention.

Linari | Via N.Zabaglia, 9

This lively bar, located in the popular Testaccio neighborhood, is always busy with locals sipping coffee and enjoying the delicious croissant and chocolate filled pastries

A couple of tips: pay for your coffee at the till and then take your receipt to the counter to be served and remember that Italians don’ t drink cappuccino after meals, as milk would slow your digestion.

For the latest news about the real Italian Espresso check the Italian Espresso National Institute website.

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips with us? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it! Buon Viaggio!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

Twitter.com/ItalyTravelista

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours, based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing a version of this article on your website please contact us for consent and further info.

Pantheon's fountain close to Tazza d'Oro coffee shop

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Travel to Italy | Rome Guide to the New Best Restaurants

ItalyTravelista — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 17:06:50 +0000

" Stop Checking the Map! Italytravelista said yummy Restaurants in Rome are There!"

Eating out in Rome is a real treat and one the Eternal City’s great pleasure. Rome offers a wide range of restaurants to please any palate and satisfy any appetite. Over the last few years new fine dining restaurants, run by young and creative people, have sprang up in Rome serving up a range of innovative takes on Italian and Roman traditional dishes in warm and friendly atmosphere making these places an ideal venue for a relaxed lunch or an intimate dinner. These slow food restaurants in Rome are less formal and more focused on seasonal dishes, local and fresh ingredients, knowledgeable but small wine lists, attentive but discreet service, and quality at affordable price. These new Rome slow food restaurants are usually small restaurants located across Rome and no longer tied to the historical Rome center (Centro Storico).

When in Rome Settembrini in Prati is a Great Choice

This is ItalyTravelista very personal short list of new and off the beaten path Rome delicious and elegant restaurants that you should try when in Rome between touring the Vatican Museums and a visiting the Borghese Gallery.

PRIMO | Via del Pigneto 46 | Price: € 40 |

Best Bets| Minitapas | Linguine with baccalà (salted cod) & red Pepper |

SETTEMBRINI | Via L. Settembrini 25 | Price: € 50 |

Best Bets| Mussels & Beans Soup | Lamb with Aubergine Parmigiana | Fresh Seafood |

GLASS HOSTARIA | Vicolo del Cinque 58 | Price: € 50 |

Best Bets| Risotto with Shitake Mushrooms | Lamb | Crab Stuffed Ravioli |

IOLANDA | Via del Fontanile Arenato 155 | Price: € 55 |

Best Bets| Cacio e Pepe meets Matriciana | Suckling Pig |

ROSCIOLI| Via dei Giubbonari 21| Price: € 50 |

Best Bets| Rigatoni Carbonara | Prosciutto Ham | Cheese Plate |

LE TRE ZUCCHE | Via G. Mengarini 43 | Price: € 40 |

Best Bets| 3 Ways Baccalà | Stracotto Lasagna | Spaghetti with Shrimps |

OSTERIA LA GENSOLA | Piazza della Gensola 15 | Price: € 45 |

Best Bets| Seafood | Rigatoni Matriciana | Beef Tagliata |

DA FERNANDA | Via E. Rolli 1 | Price: € 40 |

Best Bets| Mozzarella Cheese & Shrimps | Chicken with Black Olives | Salmon with Black Rice |

ALCHEMILLA | Via San Giovanni in Laterano 220 | Price: € 40 |

Best Bets| Menu Changes Weekly

ANTICA OSTERIA L’INCANNUCCIATA | Via della Giustiniana 5 (Prima Porta) | Price: € 40 |

Best Bets| Risotto | Ravioli with Porcini | Lamb |

Enjoy your Roman Holidays and enjoy the best roman restaurants and Italian delicious food! Did I miss anything? Do you want to share with us any Rome’s tip or insight? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

NancyAielloTours.com
ItalyTravelista.com
Twitter.com/ItalyTravelista

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours, based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for our free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing a version of this article on your website please contact us for consent and further info.

Great Restaurants in Rome | When in Rome Enjoy Great Italian Food

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Walking Rome Tour | Tour Renaissance and Baroque Rome

ItalyTravelista — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 17:27:33 +0000

The Spanish Steps in Rome

When in Rome enjoy a relaxing Rome walking tour covering at your own pace the Eternal City’s historical center and visit enchanting churches, monumental fountains and Egyptian obelisks.

Discover Renaissance and Baroque Rome in the footsteps of Michelangelo, Bernini and Borromini by touring the famous Spanish Steps, the legendary Trevi Fountain, the marvelous Piazza Navona the heart of Baroque Rome and the lively Campo dè Fiori.

La Barcaccia Fountain in Piazza di Spagna, Rome

Start your walking Rome Tour from the bottom of Via dei Condotti exploring Rome’s most exclusive designers and jewelers window shops. Reach the lively Piazza di Spagna from where you will immerse yourself into beauty, history and mystery where the combination of a monumental staircase, the world renowned Spanish Steps, an Egyptian obelisk, the refreshing Barcaccia Fountain by Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s Father, and the rosy Trinità dei Monti beautiful French church draws visitors and photographers to the square from all over the world.

From Piazza di Spagna continues your enchanting journey through Rome Baroque and Renaissance past, and a bit further sometime. On the way to the Trevi Fountain don’t miss the opportunity to explore the off the beaten path ancient roman aqueduct of the Aqua Virgo and the outstanding two marble angels crafted by Bernini located in the Baroque Borromini Church of St. Andrea delle Fratte. A curiosity often people think that the two angels in St. Angel Castle bridge are original but..these are just copies of the real ones placed in the Church of Sant’ Andrea delle Fratte!

Bernini's Angels inside the Borromonini's Church St. Andrea delle Fratte

Next stop will be the outstanding Trevi Fountain! Before leaving the Trevi Square do not forget to throw a coin (over your shoulder with your back to the fountain) into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome!

The Trevi Fountain in Rome

Continue your pleasant stroll through Rome narrows streets till you reach the ancient roman Pantheon to appreciate its amazing “oculus”, the central point of the Pantheon far above visitors’ heads, and the richly decorated colored marble floors, that the make the 2000 years old landmark an unforgettable experience.

The Oculus inside the Pantheon in Rome

Once here do not miss the Egyptian Obelisk in the middle of the Piazza and pay attention to the other Bernini’s gem the small but remarkable Obelisk on top of the elephant statue in the nearby Piazza della Minerva.

Bernini's Extravagant Elephant Statue in Piazza della Minnerva

After a tasty gelato and a short walk you will reach Piazza Navona (Navona Square), the most Baroque of the roman squares, built on the perimeter of the ancient Domitian’s Stadium and today adorned by the Borromini Church of St. Agnes in Agone and three outstanding fountains: the Bernini’s Masterpiece Fountain of the Four Rivers decorated with an Egyptian obelisk on top, the Fountain of the Moor in front of the 17th century Palazzo Pamphilj, today home to the Brazilian Embassy, and the Fountain of the Neptune also known as the Fountain of the Boilermakers located at the northern side of the Piazza. Today the square is lined with outdoor café and lively wine-bars making Piazza Navona one of the best places in Rome to fully enjoy art, history and la Dolce Vita lifestyle.

4 Rivers Fountain by Bernini in Navona Square, Rome

You will end your walking tour of Baroque Rome in Campo dei Fiori (Field of Flowers) which derives its name from the Flowering Field that till the Renaissance was really here.

Nowadays Campo, as it usually referred by locals, is very popular with Romans and foreigners alike, who enjoy one of the several shows by street artists performed in the evening or a relaxing glass of wine in one of the many cafés and wine bars located in this very charming square. In the middle of Campo there’s the Giordano Bruno’s Statue, a philosopher burnt to die the 17th of February of 1600 after the Roman Inquisition found him guilty of heresy. Interesting to note that Campo de’ Fiori is the only big Roman square with no churches.

Giordano Bruno overseeing Campo dè Fiori, Rome

Behind Campo dè Fiori you can admire the beautiful Palazzo Farnese wanted by Cardinal Alessandro Farnese and designed by major artists of the Renaissance, today home to the French Embassy. Also Michelangelo was involved with the project trying to link the Farnese palace to Villa Farnesina, located on the other Tiber’s bank also owned by Farnese family. Observe the two beautiful granite basins that were relocated to the Farnese Square in the 16th century from the ancient Roman Baths of Caracalla.

It’s time to eat now and sure you will find several tasty Italian restaurants, cozy wine bars and yummy pizzerie around to enjoy Italian food & wine as a nice way to celebrate your Renaissance and Baroque Rome Tour.

Slow Food Restaurants & Pizzerie in & around Campo dè Fiori

Ristorante & Forno Roscioli
Pizza al Taglio Il Forno di Campo dè Fiori
Trattoria la Carbonara
Trattoria da Giovanni
Ristorante il San Lorenzo Ristorante il Pagliaccio

Did I miss anything? Do you want to share with us any Rome’s tip or insight? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

NancyAielloTours.com
ItalyTravelista.com
Twitter.com/ItalyTravelista

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours, based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for our free RSS feed.

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Tags: bernini, borromini, campo dè fiori, farnese palace, free tour in rome, Navona Square, obelisks in rome, Oculus, pantehon, Pantheon, piazza di spagna, piazza farnese, piazza navona, renaissance and baroque rome tour, rome baroque tour, rome walking tour, Sant'andrea delle fratte, spanish steps, tour rome in one day, Via Condotti, Walking Rome

Summer in Rome | Get Your Refreshing Grattachecca!

ItalyTravelista — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 18:43:41 +0000

Summer in Rome: Get your Grattachecca!

When in Rome the best way to beat the heat is to enjoy a colorful and refreshing grattachecca. Romans know that one of the best remedies against the August heat is a tasty grattachecca. It is a blend of hand shaven ice and fruit syrup. The name derives from the combination of “grattare” to crush and “checca”, a roman dialect word which once was used to identify the big ice block used to keep the food cool before refrigerator was invented. It is a great way to cool down if you are walking all over the city while being hot and humid. While walking the streets of Rome spoil yourself with a grattachecca and soak up the lively Roman atmosphere.

As for gelato ice creams for your grattachecca you and your kids can choose different fruity flavors such as lemon, coconut, watermelon and even passion fruit, and often you will also have a piece or two of the actual fruit thrown in, so this is a great way of staying hydrated during your roman holidays.

Today I had Lime and Orange cross the Tiber Island!

Very few stalls in Rome still prepare grattachecca today, following the traditional method, among them the oldest and most famous is the Fonte d’Oro in Trastevere (Piazza Belli), is very convenient when you are done with the Basilica of St. Mary in Trastevere and the popular Trastevere quarter! Not far from there in front of Ponte Cestio is the Sora Mirella (Lungotevere degli Anguillara) which has shaved the ice manually since 1915 and from where you will enjoy the magnificent Tiber Island! There are also Sora Maria (Via Trionfale), La Grattachecca just across the famous Milvio Bridge, and Il Chiosco in the popular Testaccio quarter.

Another Busy Day at Sora Mirella!

According to Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grattachecca) the history of the grattachecca is said to be dated back to Ancient Roman times by the emperor Quintus Fabius Maximus which would go to mount Terminillo, which is about 100 kilometers from the capital, in the Apennines and brought back ice from there. Quintus Fabius Maximus wanted this ice to be flavored with sweet syrups and sold by the thermopolia, which were ancient kiosks that sold both hot and cold beverages.

When in Rome do not miss la Grattachecca and follow the latest news about grattachecca on Facebook

Ciao from Rome

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

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